Residents of Santorini in Panic as Seismic Activity Sparks Mass Exodus

ATHENS, GREECE – The Greek island of Santorini is experiencing increased seismic activity, prompting thousands of residents to flee the area. More than 6,000 people have left the island by ferry since Sunday, with additional emergency flights scheduled for Tuesday.

In the past 48 hours, there have been over 300 earthquakes near Santorini, leading experts to believe that tremors may persist for weeks. As a precautionary measure, authorities have closed schools for the entire week and advised against large indoor gatherings. Despite the situation, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has urged residents to remain calm.

Known for its picturesque whitewashed buildings, Santorini is a popular tourist destination. However, the majority of those leaving the island are locals, as February falls outside the peak tourist season.

Several tremors, with a magnitude of up to 4.7, were recorded northeast of Santorini early on Tuesday. While there have been no reports of significant damage, emergency measures are being taken. Hundreds of individuals queued at a port to board ferries departing for the mainland.

In addition to the 6,000 individuals who have left by ferry since Sunday, approximately 2,500 to 2,700 passengers are expected to fly from Santorini to Athens via plane on Monday and Tuesday. Aegean Airlines has added three emergency flights to accommodate the influx of passengers.

Santorini, with a population of just 15,500, attracts millions of tourists annually. Kostas Sakavaras, a tour guide residing on the island for 18 years, decided to leave with his family as a precaution. He emphasized the importance of taking preventative measures in the face of uncertainty.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid specific areas of the island and empty their swimming pools. Schools will remain closed until Friday, with emergency services on high alert and rescue teams prepared for any eventualities. While Santorini is part of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, recent tremors are believed to be linked to tectonic plate movements rather than volcanic activity.